Is St. Nicholas and Krampus?

Krampus, in central European popular legend, a half-goat, half-demon monster that punishes misbehaving children at Christmastime. He is the devilish companion of St. Nicholas. Krampus is believed to have originated in Germany, and his name derives from the German word Krampen, which means “claw.”

What does Krampusnacht mean?

In Alpine Austria and some parts of Germany, this day was known as Krampusnacht, or “Krampus night,” when adults might dress up as Krampus to frighten children at their homes.

What happens on Krampusnacht?

Krampusnacht (Krampus night) starts things off on December 5th, the eve of St. Nicholas day. Traditionally, on this suspenseful evening, children would leave a shoe outside their door. The next morning, they would get their first warning – if they’d behaved, their shoe would be full of presents left by the Saint.

Why does Krampus have one hoof?

There has been no reveal as to why Krampus would have one human foot, but a prevailing theory now is that perhaps Krampus was in fact once human and therefore turned into the beast of today and that human foot is the only real piece left that did not turn.

How do I keep Krampus away?

You can do is make one of the many Krampus breads of Europe and flavor it with the essence of sweat and burning souls. Sweat, I’ve got covered. Essence of Burning Soul is a bit hard to come by in the baking aisle at Kroger these days. However, it seems anise or black licorice also works as a deterrent.

How do you ward off Krampus?

The variety of Krampus breads made in Germany on Krampusnacht, December 5 – but be sure to flavor them with old sweat and the scent of burning soul to ward off him and his hellraisers.

Do Germans still talk about Krampus?

While there is certainly debate as to whether this holiday is appropriate for children, it continues to be celebrated throughout Bavaria, Austria, Central Europe, and beyond.

What does Dwight say as Belsnickel?

Dwight: What about an authentic Pennsylvania Dutch Christmas? Drink some gluhwein, enjoy some hasenpfeffer… enjoy Christmas with St. Nicholas’ rural old German companion, Belsnickel!